VITAL aid has been delivered to Nantwich's first responders team as it continues to safeguard the town.

The team, which is attached to the Mersey Regional Ambulance Service (MRAS), plays an important role by tending to accident victims until an ambulance arrives.

Its work has been recognised by Nantwich Town Council, whose chairman Steve Hope presented a cheque for £2,000.

The first response vehicle is on permanent loan from Paul, John and Mark Schofield of Car Transplants in Nantwich.

The donation will go towards its insurance.

First responder co-ordinator Gavin Palin, a fireman, said: 'This is a great boost to us and it ensures we can continue to provide a vital service for Nantwich and the surrounding districts.

'Without the continued support of the town council and the Schofield brothers the first response scheme would struggle so I can't thank them enough.'

Gavin and his team are on standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week and attend an average of three or four incidents a day.

In 2005 they were called to close on 1,000 incidents where injured people needed their support.

Cllr Hope said: 'These people are the first to the scene of many accidents every day. How many lives would be at risk if we didn't have them? They do a splendid job and we should continue to support them.'